Heather Von St. James informs us of the dangers of this deadly mineral, and how it is poisoning men.
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There’s only one known cause for mesothelioma, and that’s exposure to asbestos. We know today that asbestos exposure in any degree is dangerous and that even minuscule amounts can turn into mesothelioma. Here we’ll look at where asbestos comes from, what uses it has and where one is most at risk for exposure to it.
Since mesothelioma is a rare cancer primarily linked with asbestos exposure, it is overwhelmingly a male disease. Many workers and maintenance contractors at industrial and commercial job sites were subjected to dangerous levels of asbestos on the job. It affects men three to four times more than women.
Who Uses It
According to the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance, asbestos was used throughout most of the Industrial Revolution in manufacturing facilities and in the military. Many people would be exposed to asbestos through working in these factories and industry warehouses. There was very little knowledge, if any, as to the dangers of asbestos. Today, the most commonplace to find it is in old renovated homes that were constructed before 1980.
How It’s Used
Asbestos is a mineral that has been used since ancient Roman times for its miraculous properties of resistance towards heat, fire and chemical damage. This fibrous, affordable material was used for insulation, some clothing and building materials. Today, however, asbestos is known to be a carcinogen and is banned in most countries.
Where It’s Used
Throughout the Industrial Revolution asbestos was widely used in military equipment and in factories. Those who worked in manufacturing, chemical plants, shipyards or the military were at a greater risk for asbestos exposure. While asbestos use has been discontinued in the United States, job construction sites involving older buildings still create a risk for asbestos exposure.
When Are Effects Evident?
One of the most insidious aspects of asbestos exposure is the long period of time after exposure that can pass before the damaging effects become evident. In some cases, individuals who are exposed to asbestos during a home renovation project or from past military service aren’t able to see any physical side effects until 30 to 50 years down the road. That’s why it’s so important to consult a physician if you think you’ve been exposed.
Why
Asbestos was used way back in the time of ancient Greece and Rome. While it has some incredible properties, it has some deadly ones, too. While many nations worldwide have banned its use, it is still legal in the U.S. While many states have banned use of the mineral, there is still potential for exposure.
Exposure to asbestos in any quantity is dangerous. For this reason it is important to stay informed about the uses asbestos has had throughout history and learn how it could create potential risk for you today. Find out more about asbestos exposure by joining our community, getting involved in the conversation, informing loved ones and helping us to advocate for banning it!
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Photo credit: Matt Niemi/flickr
to one warrior to another…thank you for what you are doing as I too have had the same duty to tell the truth to save lives for 20 years now and in 2000, when1200 people were diagnosed wit asbestos in the town of Libby Mt…EPA came to town and spent 17,000.00 to advertise Libby as a safe place to live and raise a family and since then, Libby continues to kill all those being lied to and my job is to tell all who will listen to stay the hell away rom this death town. Not to mention over$ 600,000,000.00… Read more »